Participants under the age of 18 must have adult supervision at all cleanup activities.

Groups are encouraged to recycle as much as possible.

Groups must report results after each cleanup via the online Cleanup Results Form in order to document your commitment.

A personalized sign recognizing the group will be placed on site after the initial cleanup has been reported. Signs are placed and maintained by City Public Works crews. Please allow 6-8 weeks for the sign to be placed.

Participating groups are encouraged to take before and after photos of their area and also group photos. When emailed to Metro Waste Authority at ask@mwatoday.com, these photos may be used to promote the Adopt A Street program.

In the unlikely event groups do not fulfill their commitment (i.e., caring for their area, reporting cleanups) the sign will be removed and the adoption agreement will become null and void.

Safety Guidelines

The Safety Guidelines (download or see below) are intended to keep all participants in the Metro Waste Authority Adopt A Street program safe. They cannot, however, cover all situations that volunteers may encounter and it is the responsibility of all participants, especially group leaders, to use their best judgment to maintain the safety of everyone involved at all times.

Dress appropriately for the weather. Closed toed shoes, long pants and sturdy gloves are recommended. Hats, sunscreen and insect repellant are also recommended.

When working near a roadway, wear a safety vest and/or bright colored clothing to be seen easily by motorists.

Work only during daylight hours and only in favorable weather.

Have plenty of water on hand.

Take breaks and avoid overexertion, especially in hot weather.

Avoid working alone. Work in groups and use the buddy system.

Have a first aid kit at the cleanup sight.

Be aware of personal surroundings at all times. Stay alert to the dangers posed by changing weather, wildlife, passing cars, poisonous plants or any other hazards that might be encountered at your site.

Do NOT pick up litter from road surfaces.

Do NOT pick up hazardous materials (hypodermic needles, chemicals, dead animals, etc) or unknown materials that may be hazardous. Call your community’s Public Works Department or Metro Waste Authority at 515.244.0021 to report the material for proper disposal.

Do NOT participate in litter cleanups while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Do NOT attempt to cleanup in any area that may pose a personal risk to volunteers such as dangerous overhangs, hard to reach area, etc.

Do NOT walk on or beside railroad tracks or leave trash bags on or near railroad tracks.